Fort Gustav From the eastern side of Gustavia harbor it’s a short hike up a scrubby path past the lighthouse to Fort Gustav. The fort was constructed in the 18th century to protect the harbor when the island was under Swedish control. The ruins, including ramparts, canons and guardhouse, provide the ideal vantage to take in a magnificent panoramic view across the island.

Wall House Museum The Wall House Museum (Le Musée Territorial) is located at La Pointe on the western entrance to Gustavia Harbor, next to the town hall (Hotel de la Collectivité). The recently restored building dates back to the Swedish period. The museum brings to life the history of the island, with an exhibition of old artifacts, costumes, tools and fishing boats.

Shell Beach Shell Beach is the nearest beach to Gustavia, and is within easy walking distance from the tender dock (just follow the signs to ‘La Plage’). The gorgeous sands are covered in tiny sea shells, pretty to look at, but crunchy underfoot. Behind the beach there’s a small upmarket beach bar/restaurant.

St Jean Beach St. Jean Beach is actually two beaches, divided by a rock promontory on top of which sits the Eden Rock Hotel. The beach is the most popular on the island, and there’s lots of fun things to do, plus the people-watching’s great. St Barth’s airport runway starts by the beach, and it's very entertaining to follow small aircraft as they make the challenging approach. The beach is about 2 miles across the island from Gustavia. Transport options include car/jeep/quad bike/scooter hire.

Anse Du Gouverneur beach Anse Du Gouverneur Beach is a gorgeous stretch of sand on the southern coast of Saint Barthélemy. The beach boasts beautiful scenery, with soft sands and blue seas backed by rolling hills. The clear waters are ideal for swimming and snorkeling. There are no facilities, part of the beach’s charm, so remember to take some water and a snack. Just to the east of Anse Du Gouverneur lies another beach, Saline, also worth a visit.

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